Past Development
1883
The first telephone exchange in the state of Washington was started in Seattle at 2nd & Cherry using a small magneto switchboard. In 1888 the office was relocated to Yesler & Occidental Streets.
1899
Main central office was established at 1108 3rd Avenue near its present location, replacing the original office. "Express" type equipment was installed.
1902 – 1903
Independent company "Elliott" to "North" offices established.
1912
Elliott office, started in 1902 by The Independent Telephone Company, was purchased by the Pacific Company and consolidated into the Main district. At the time the Independent Company's "North" office was discontinued.
1924
The CB manual equipment at Main and Elliott was replaced by panel type dial equipment in a new steel framed building. (1200-3rd Ave. Building)
1927
A third unit of panel was cut into service at Main — "Seneca"
1948
The first crossbar tandem unit in Seattle was installed at Main.
1949
No. 1 crossbar equipment was installed for the fourth unit at Main — "Mutual"
1956
1122 3rd Avenue Building completed.
1957
Three units of panel replaced with 3 units #5XB in new building.
1958
2L-5N dialing established.
1959
Seattle 4A toll switching unit cut into service. Limited DDD/CAMA MA 2, 3, 4 – 1 & 2 party subscribers established.
1961
DDD/LAMA-CAMA established. ANI installed at MU2.
1962
#5XB CENTREX established in 1122 – 3rd Avenue Building.
1966
#5XB CCSA switching unit in 1122 – 3rd Avenue Building.
Future Development
For the current view of future developments, please refer to the Seattle section of the "Planning Guide issued by the District Engineer – Planning.